A review of protective effects of Withania somnifera and its bioactive component withaferin A in organ ischemia-reperfusion injury

Withania somnifera (WS) is an Ayurvedic botanical which has been extensively studied for thousands of years. Withanolides are the main pharmacologically active ingredients isolated from WS and withaferin A (WA) is the most extensively studied and therapeutically effective withanolide compound. WS and WA have anti-ischemia-reperfusion injury effects. To summarize and investigate the protective roles of WS and WA and their underlying mechanisms in organ ischemia-reperfusion injury, a comprehensive literature search was conducted using databases including PubMed and Web of Science. Relevant in vitro and preclinical regarding WS and WA in the treatment of organ ischemia-reperfusion injury. By analyzing the existing research advances, we found that the anti-organ ischemia-reperfusion injury effects of WS and WA, primarily mediated through anti-apoptosis, anti-oxidative stress, anti-inflammatory, anti-mitochondrial dysfunctions, induction of neuronal regeneration and inhibition of migration. This review systematically summarizes the different roles and mechanisms of WS and WA in organ ischemia-reperfusion injury and provides a basis for future therapeutic investigation of organ ischemia/reperfusion injury.